10 Tips for Safeguarding Your Computer

Ten simple steps for safeguarding your Windows or Mac computer, which can spare you a major headache down the road!

Two Laptops Working

While modern computer operating systems, both Windows and Mac OS, have come a long way in terms of security, it is still possible to get hacked and the consequences can be disastrous in terms of lost productivity and stolen information. Here are 10 simple steps for safeguarding your computer, many of which are often overlooked.

  1. Turn off your computer when you are not using it for an extended period and especially overnight. As an added benefit, this can save energy costs and increase the longevity of your computer.
  2. Keep your computer updated with the latest system software, and your applications updated to their latest version. Security concerns are often addressed this way.
  3. Make sure your home Wi-Fi router is updated with the latest firmware and enable the security options it offers. Also, make sure any remote administration feature is turned off.
  4. Turn off remote access and if you've ever had an application installed to allow remote access, remote PC support for example, be sure to uninstall the application after use.
  5. Periodically check what applications are running and uninstall those you are no longer using. Not only does this help with security, but it can also help with performance.
  6. Make sure you home Wi-Fi password is enabled and secure, don't assume that your home is safe from Wi-Fi hacking.
  7. Always sign into websites from the browser by using shortcuts or typing in the URL. Clicking an email link opens you up to Phishing attempts.
  8. Be mindful of the websites you are visiting, sites that offer questionable content are often havens for nefarious scripts and downloads.
  9. Never send sensitive information over email, including passwords and banking information. Even if you're great at securing your computer, the recipient of the email may not be and you're then vulnerable if they get hacked.
  10. If you need to use your laptop in public places, use your smartphone's Wi-Fi hotspot instead of connecting to the public Wi-Fi. There is always an increased risk when using a public Wi-Fi connection that may or may not be configured securely.